Vintage-inspired eyewear isn't a new concept by any stretch of the imagination, but Gentlemonster reworks the classics with an emphasis on innovation. Buddy Holly specs and brow line glasses take on a modern edge with sleek angles whereas changeable faceplates give Wayfarers a much-needed update. Frames from the '50s to '70s serve as points of reference, but strictly in a design sense.

Based in Seoul, South Korea, Gentlemonster got its start like many other independent eyewear makers: Kim is an avid collector of vintage glasses. "I started to make eyewear because I know about glasses better than other accessories," he says. Previously, Kim worked for an English education company, launching the label in February 2011.